20070610 The Carroll County Regional Airport decision

The Carroll County Regional Airport decision

Sunday, June 10^th, 2007

First of all - the extraordinary level of the acrimonious debate that has swirled around this decision since the days of last fall’s county commissioner election campaign initially took many of us by surprise – and has only grown to a level beyond unfortunate.

The most recent discussions about expanding the airport began around December 2003 and some suggest that it was really in the late 1990s that the idea began to circle the runway.

By critical analysis the county commissioners have been open and forthcoming in developing the criteria in order to make a decision and folks who have only recently discovered the impending decision and are suggesting some grand conspiracy bankrupt their credibility.

With only 11.6 percent commercial and industrial tax base; the fact that residential property taxes will never maintain enough revenue to fund the increased demands for county government services has been discussed for the last 15 to 20 years.

Expanding the economic development opportunities afforded by expanding the capacity and attractiveness of the airport was essentially a no-brainer for those looking at the big picture.

The one fly in the ointment is the recent residential development in close proximity of the airport in recent decades.

In spite of the fact that folklore has an airport in that location since the 1920s and that a more organized airport structure was dedicated on June 5^th, 1943; folks nevertheless opted to purchase homes near the airport. Most folks adopted a live and let live approach to having an airport in the neighborhood for decades - - then came the houses and a totally new approach.

The fact that many of us have questioned allowing the close proximity of housing developments to the airport is now moot. The facts on the ground are that the houses are there.

And any future expansion of the airport must take into consideration the safety and enjoyment of the folks who live near the airport.

Many feel that can be accomplished – perhaps by working together and maybe even being creative.

Certainly the suggestion of forming a Citizens Advisory Council is good beginning.

Another idea may very well be to grant property tax credits in the airport’s immediate zone of influence. Ultimately some of the houses may need to be purchased by the county as they come on the market.

And finally a large area surrounding the airport must be zoned in a manner that only facilitates business, commercial and industrial use and no more residential housing.

Other ideas must be considered by perhaps a Citizens Advisory Council and meaningful dialogue with the groups that have formed in opposition to the expansion.

The one challenge at present is that many of the folks who are opposed to the expansion of the airport have not been overly friendly about their opposition and a breakdown in trust has occurred in their discussions with the commissioners and county staff.

To be certain the reservations expressed by many of the airport neighbors should be taken into consideration with any future airport expansion plans.

What needs to be taken into consideration are the real impacts and not the uber-exaggerated “sky is falling” and the "end of civilization as we know it" fears that have been expressed as the decision has drawn near. Ultimately that has been a disservice to everyone involved.

It is always a matter of curiosity for those of us who have served in public office as to why folks who wish to promote an agenda feel that they can move the ball forward by being profoundly, if not unbearably unpleasant.

My ear to the ground indicates that even among some folks who have reservations about whether or not to expand the airport have been turned off by the opposition.

And that is not a good thing, as there are legitimate questions that should be answered in the long range planning of the airport, even among the many of us who feel that expanding the airport is good for the greatest number of Carroll countians and in the long run, good for the county.

Certainly the reservations of the neighbors are legitimate and need to be addressed as much as possible, but we would have all been better off without the personal attacks upon the decision makers – and their staff.

Nevertheless - - In the interest in creating additional community employment and tax base, the best decision for the greater portion of Carroll countians is to approve the expansion of the airport. Hopefully, later this morning, at the commissioners’ meeting today at 10 AM – the commissioners will agree.

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20070611 Recent local newspaper coverage of the proposed airport expansion

A listing of recent local newspaper coverage of the proposed airport expansion

June 11^th, 2007

For more posts on “Soundtrack” about Carroll County Regional Airport go to: Carroll County Regional Airport

Kelsey Volkmann coverage in the Baltimore Examiner:

Airport’s night-light, fuel pump broken - 06/12/2007
Commissioners are scheduled to vote today on whether to lengthen the runway at Carroll County Regional Airport in Westminster. But a source familiar with airport operations questions whether an expansion is appropriate when it can’t seem to keep up with basic maintenance.
http://www.examiner.com/a-775756~Airport_s_night_light__fuel_pump_broken.html

Airport meeting disappoints - 06/08/2007
Residents opposed to the lengthening of the runway at the Carroll County Regional Airport said they were disappointed by their meeting with county commissioners Thursday.
http://www.examiner.com/a-770037~Airport_meeting_disappoints.html

Residents against expansion petition county lawmakers - 06/05/2007
It was a two-pronged attack.
http://www.examiner.com/a-763822~Residents_against_expansion_petition_county_lawmakers.html

Carrie Knauer coverage in the Carroll County Times:

Airport expansion: Impact of proposal examined

The much-debated airport expansion plan, which is part of the Carroll County Regional Airport Master Plan, includes a longer runway, new hangars and other amenities to attract more business to the airport and nearby business parks. But some residents... Jun. 11, 2007; scored 775.0

Residents share mixed feelings

On Tuesday, the Carroll County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to vote on the Carroll County Regional Airport master plan, which includes recommendations to build a new 6,400-foot runway north and west of the existing runway. While residents who ... Jun. 11, 2007; scored 775.0

More ire for airport

Protesters seek injunction against commissioners After failing to receive an injunction to prevent the Carroll County Board of Commissioners from voting on the airport master plan today, members of Concerned Citizens United took their protest from th... Jun. 12, 2007;

Runway in need of funds

Airport expansion opponents who met with Carroll County commissioners Thursday walked away from the table discouraged, saying they believe the commissioners have already made up their minds to go forward with the expansion. Ron Buczkowski, Cheri Grub... Jun. 8, 2007;

Westminster Eagle coverage of the airport expansion matter:

Neighbors decry impact of airport expansion 05/30/07 - By Katie V. Jones

The deterioration of quality of life -- whether by pollution, traffic or lack of security -- was the biggest concern presented last week to the Board of County Commissioners at a public hearing re...

Issues related to airport proposal need clear review

05/24/07 - Guest Opinion by Cindy Parr — Chief of Administrative Services for Carroll County Government In recent months, much has been written about the Carroll County Regional Airport's (CCRA) proposed expansion effort.

This letter is intended to serve as a clarification of the facts as they...

News Briefs 05/23/07 - CCPS cuts $8.9 million from requested budget

As the Board of County Commissioners wraps this year's budget process, the public school system acted last week to trim $8.9 million from its initial...

Letters 05/23/07 - Airport debate hasn't been as open as it should be

I appreciate The Westminster Eagle's attestation that the nuances of the proposed airport master plan may perhaps be too much to be adequately ...

Airport options face public

05/16/07 - By Jim Joyner

To build or not to build ... or maybe to build a little or a lot.

Those are the questions being posed for the future of the Carroll County Regional Airport, and they are also the subject of ...

Airport master plan needs to circle the field before landing 05/16/07 - EDITORIAL

Next week's budget hearing on the proposed master plan for Carroll County Regional Airport promises to be high-flying -- the options for upgrades at the airport already have a followin...

Letters 04/11/07 - Residents will see airport expansion impact in taxes

Raise your hand if you own a corporate jet. I rest my case -- so much for an expansion of the airport directly benefiting local citizens.

W...

Dropping a hot potato in the commissioner's laps

04/11/07 - By David Grand

That's how I'd describe the dilemma the commissioners find themselves in, having to choose between expanding the airport's runway for the county's financial gain -- by being able to handle larger ...

No happy landing for Sage study 04/05/07 - By Katie V. Jones

Local residents took the opportunity on Monday to sound off on a recent study on the economic impacts of a proposed expansion of the Carroll County Regional Airport.

Many in the large crowd that...

News Briefs 03/28/07 - Sage to present findings of county airport study

Anirban Basu of the Sage Policy Group will host a public meeting next Monday to discuss the findings of a study on the economic impact of Carroll...

20070611 "Concerned Citizens United" takes their case against airport to City Hall

"Concerned Citizens United" takes their case against airport to City Hall

June 11^th, 2007 by Kevin Dayhoff

About a dozen members of Concerned Citizens United took their case against the proposed expansion of the Carroll County Regional Airport to the Westminster Common Council meeting this evening.

After protesting outside for about a half-an-hour before the meeting, the group attended the common council meeting; waiting an hour for the opportunity to speak during “citizen’s comments.”

At the beginning of citizens comments Council president Roy Chiavacci asked who wanted to speak on the matter of the airport and gave each speaker five minutes each. A number of members of the group took him up on his offer.

The first person to speak was Victoria Oneda, the organizer of the group, who went through all the talking points and questions in a handout they provided for the council members.

Ms. Oneda said that she and her group was “trying to create a dialogue about” the proposed expansion. And that she and members of her group – and Carroll County “citizens were unaware about the airport expansion” until only recently.

“Where is the water,” asked Ms. Oneda as she proceeded to ask some questions about city plans to develop a water supply from Medford Quarry. Where is the county going to get water for the expansion, asked Ms. Oneda.

She continued by asking, “What is the progress of the improvements for Rte 97? What if Marty Hill cannot sell his houses because of the airport?”

The next gentleman to speak announced that he lives in the city and has “consistently paid for more water than he uses…” He said that he has “lived here for over twenty five years... (and that the city) seems to be always be behind when it comes to sewage facilities.”

After further questions about “airport expansion taxes,” the dialogue continued as to whether or not the airport is not in the city… The runway is in the county? But the businesses out by the airport were in the city…, he asked?

He finished by remarking that in the research impact study that he reviewed, it did not take into consideration the impact on city.

The next person to speak had concerns about the economic impacts the proposed expansion of the airport will have on the city.

He then commented that earlier in the meeting “Mr. Pecoraro has alluded to a disconnect between the city and the county. The city will be impacted by the 737 larger planes that will be landing at the expanded airport.”

Commenting further he expressed concern about “noise pollution and air pollution” and that “conflicting information was being disseminated.” It has been reported that “the FAA is going to pick up 95 percent of the cost. (But) his calculation is that the FAA will only cover 25 percent of the costs for the expansion… It is not all as rosy as the commissioners” are presenting the expansion, he concluded.

Mr. Oneda was the next person to speak. He advocated the formation of a “Citizens Advisory Committee” (CAC). He noted that in information he read, the FAA required a TAC (Technical Advisory Committee) but also strongly suggested the formation of a Citizens Advisory Committee.

The reason he cited that it would be good to form a CAC “because the county has been so quiet about (the proposed expansion) and it is raising public distrust. Why are they hiding from this?”

Former Westminster Common Councilwoman, Rebekah Orenstein expressed concerns about Pennsylvania Avenue. She remarked that she had “met with Mr. (Steve)Powell (Carroll county commissioners’ chief of staff) last week for over an hour.”

Ms. Orenstein expressed concern that “none of you all are aware of (the airport expansion.) I’m very concerned about this,” in a reference to earlier discussion that the Westminster officials had expressed some concern that they had asked for a briefing about the purposed expansion but that meeting never took place. And yet she was able to easily able to have a meeting with Mr. Powell.

Her next concern was the “noise issue.” The “big jets are terrifying…” She expressed fear of the noise the big jets made, “especially after 9/11.”

“You folks have let this city and its residents down. Ms Kowalski came to you months ago and you dusted her off.” And the county has also dusted the Westminster officials off, she lectured.

The next person to speak said that she “was not a citizen of the city.” But she spends “a lot of time here.” I’m opposed to the airport because of the larger jets that it will be using it. Bigger planes make bigger noise,” she said.

“I would think that you would demand better communication with the county commissioners. You have every right to demand that you be kept informed. The Westminster council deserves to know what is going on,” she implored.

David Taylor, the next speaker, had safety concerns that he wanted councilman Kevin Utz to comment. A discussion ensued about safety issues concerning the airport expansion…

Beatrice Wolf remarked that the airport “has a lot of planes coming in low, making a lot of noise and I’m opposed to it.”

And finally a gentleman said he didn’t “think that it is necessary for the airport to have larger airplanes.” He noted that BWI is not that far away.

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20070611 Concerned Citizens United Westminster Common Council Meeting presentation

Concerned Citizens United Westminster Common Council Meeting presentation

June 11^th, 2007 Westminster City Hall:

Questions about: The Proposed Airport Expansion

Concerned Citizens United

1. Where is the water?

How is the Union Mills, MD reservoir going to become a reality? Is it true that you may be unable to purchase the land?

The city is committed to the construction of an emergency pipeline from Medford Quarry to the Cranberry Reservoir. Construction of this nine mile long emergency pipeline is slated to begin this summer. Is this construction on schedule?

Businessman CJ Miller made a comment about the lack of water in response to the Sage Policy Economic Impact report at Carroll Community College (during public comments)

2. Where are the road improvements for Route 97?

Maryland Route 97 is still a two-lane country road bearing the brunt of commuters from the northern end of the county, and from the airport/industrial park. The number of car accidents, fatalities, and traffic congestion says it all.

The MD Department of Transportation said they haven't seen any plans yet in relation to this airport expansion proposal.

April 15, 2004? Minutes of Zoning and Planning Commission?

"... .Extremely concerned with the safety along MD Route 97, and the additional impact these developments will have on an already unsafe road."

"....Developers of this industrial park and the (Boulton?) Hill residential developments will be adding over $1 million worth of improvements to MD Route 97."

Zoning Commissioners "will consider no further site plans for the (Boulton?) Hill and Meadow Branch Industrial Park until the improvements to MD Route 97 have commenced."

•Is real estate developer Marty Hill still planning to pay for the improvements needed for Route 97?

What if Marty Hill withdraws his offer: if he is unable proceed with the development plans for (Boulton?) Hill, or if he can't sell any of his homes due to an airport expansion?

3. WHO is going to decide what is best for OUR COUNTY?

The Federal Government?

Whenever any requirement on performance standard contained in this zone is in conflict with any applicable state or federal requirement or performance standard, the state or federal requirement of performance standard shall control or supersede the provisions of this zone.

4. When can we meet back with you to get answers to these questions and concerns?

20070611 News Clips

News Clips

June 11, 2007

State News

The perils of promises by C. Frazer Smith

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/oped/bal-op.fraser10jun10,1,4738421.column

How did this happen? A 72 percent increase in rates, costing consumers and seniors while energy companies make record profits. The special interests already have their governor. We need one of our own. Martin O'Malley is taking on BGE to stop the rate hike. - 2006 ad for Martin O'Malley's gubernatorial campaign

And how did this happen? A TV campaign commercial that included a risky promise - or at least the appearance of a promise: "taking on BGE to stop the rate hike." There's not much wiggle room there.

Did The Sun go too easy on BGE rates, O'Malley? By Paul Moore

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/ideas/bal-id.moore10jun10,1,7963467.column

On June 1, just in time for summer's rising temperatures, Baltimore Gas and Electric's 1.1 million residential customers began paying about 70 percent more for their electricity than last summer, The Sun reported recently. For some readers, that news prompted questions about why The Sun has not been more aggressive in its coverage of Gov. Martin O'Malley's handling of this issue - especially his failure to fulfil a campaign promise last fall to "stop the rate hikes."

Many of these readers feel that the newspaper - in the news and editorial pages - has spared O'Malley from the tough scrutiny faced by other Maryland politicians. In fact, the newsroom has questioned, analyzed and criticized O'Malley and his policies as much as those of other politicians, a fact he would gladly confirm. Still, in the case of the BGE rate increase coverage, readers have a point. O'Malley's 2006 gubernatorial campaign advertising pledged to stop the prospective electric rate hikes - at a time when most experts agreed that there were no viable options to do so without causing economic or regulatory chaos.

Hey, just raise the fees and blame Ehrlich by Laura Vozzella

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-vozzella0608,0,7973548.column?coll=bal-local-columnists

Martin O'Malley told The Washington Post last month that he'd find a "progressive" way to fill state coffers "rather than relying on jacking up everybody's driver's license fee or registration fee, as we did in the past." When Republicans discovered the other day that O'Malley's Motor Vehicle Administration had proposed doing just that, the governor's spinmeister-in-chief had a great comeback:

Bob Ehrlich made us do it. But we're not doing it.

Minority affairs secretary named

http://www.fredericknewspost.com/sections/business/display.htm?StoryID=61207

Sharon Pinder, appointed by former Gov. Bob Ehrlich as Maryland's first Special Secretary in the Governor's Office of Minority Affairs, left the position late last month after four years.

The special secretary is responsible for working with more than 400,000 small, minority and women-owned businesses in Maryland to fulfill commitments in state contract spending.

O'Malley assures minority business

Governor says state hasn't kept track of work but will improve

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-te.md.minority09jun09,1,6641236.story

Maryland's minority business program is such a shambles that it can't reliably estimate how much business the state does with non-white firms, Gov. Martin O'Malley said yesterday, promising renewed efforts to steer government work to groups that have suffered from discrimination.

The governor told the Maryland-Washington Minority Contractors Association that although the number of minority- and women-owned firms registered with the state has increased in recent years, it appears that minorities' share of state business might actually have declined.

Son of Baltimore delegate indicted

http://www.examiner.com/a-771720~Son_of_Baltimore_delegate_indicted.html

The son of a longtime Baltimore City state delegate was indicted Friday on charges of felony theft and conspiring to violate state election laws, the office of the state prosecutor said.

Robert "Skip" Harrison Jr., 60, son of Delegate Hattie Harrison, is alleged to have acted as the treasurer of his mother's campaign committee even though he was not duly authorized to do so, according to Steven Trostle of the state prosecutor's office.

Delegate’s son charged with election laws violation

http://www.examiner.com/a-772009~Delegate_s_son_charged_with_election_laws_violation.html

An Anne Arundel County grand jury on Friday indicted the son of Baltimore City Del. Hattie Harrison on charges of conspiracy to violate elections laws.

The indictment also accuses William Skip Harrison Jr., 60, of Baltimore City, with theft and multiple counts of failing to file tax returns.

Voters Reject Table Gaming for Charles Town Casino

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/06/09/AR2007060901588.html

Voters yesterday defeated a proposal to allow blackjack, poker and roulette at Charles Town Races & Slots, a racetrack casino that attracts many customers from Maryland and Virginia.

About 56 percent of Jefferson County voters who cast ballots rejected the referendum to allow table gambling, county officials said. The vote was 5,626 to 4,429.

Public to discuss tax cap

Petitioners won't challenge results

http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070611/NEWS01/706110302/1002

City Council President Louise Smith anticipates public comments to last longer than the regular business on the agenda of its meeting tonight.

Smith expects citizens to talk about the property tax rate cap and the proposed fiscal 2008 budget, which the council is scheduled to adopt Wednesday during a special meeting.

Goals at center stage at city forum

City candidates back rec centers expansion, affordable housing

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/baltimore_city/bal-md.ci.forum11jun11,1,4244065.story

Appearing together for the first time since declaring their intention to run, four Baltimore mayoral candidates and three people running for City Council president vowed yesterday to expand or rebuild 30 recreation centers and to spend at least $100 million on affordable housing, if elected.

Speaking at a candidates forum organized by Baltimoreans United in Leadership Development, a faith-based civic group, all seven agreed with the organization's broad goals, which also include increasing the availability of after-school programs and demanding that large businesses provide more summer jobs for city youth.

Sarbanes embraces energy saving

Council president candidate says proposal will trim utility bills while creating jobs

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/baltimore_city/bal-md.ci.sarbanes11jun11,0,5378904.story?coll=bal-local-headlines

Michael Sarbanes, a candidate for City Council president, plans to unveil a proposal today that he says would promote energy-efficiency measures to help residents reduce the impact of higher electricity rates, while also creating jobs.

Sarbanes, a longtime community activist making his first run for public office, was to announce his proposal this morning, followed by a demonstration of an energy audit at a private residence.

National News

Earlier Primary Schedule Pushes Wynn Into Fundraising Circuit Faster

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/06/09/AR2007060901242.html

Rep. Albert R. Wynn (D-Md.) formally kicked off his bid for reelection at a fundraiser attended by about 1,000 people at a Prince George's County banquet hall Friday morning.

Wynn survived a tough challenge in the 4th District from community activist Donna Edwards in September's primary. Now, because of the quirks of the presidential primary calendar, a rematch between Wynn and Edwards is already heating up.

Farm subsidies fall short

Wicomico's farmer dwarf state in sales, but rank only ninth in federal subsidies

http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070610/NEWS01/706100301/1002

Willards farmer Lee Richardson operates Richardson Farms Inc. with his father, Lee.

They have received the seventh highest amount of subsidies in Wicomico County during the 1995 to 2005 period. Most of it -- $267,000 -- comes in the form of corn subsidies.

A Congressional District analysis provided by the EWG shows Maryland's 1st District, represented by Rep. Wayne Gilchrest, a Republican, is the top receiver with more than $379 million in subsidies between 1995 and 2005.

Farmers vie for limited funds to plant winter cover crops

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/harford/bal-ha.farm10jun10,0,5601793.story?coll=bal-local-harford

The race is on for Maryland farmers to obtain state money to help pay for the planting of cover crops.

The state Department of Agriculture began taking farmers' applications for funding last week and, if recent history is any indication, the money will run out before the June 29 registration deadline.

Cover crops are recognized as one of the most cost-effective and environmentally sound ways to control soil erosion and nutrient runoff from farmland into the Chesapeake Bay.

If Maryland's two U.S. senators get their way, there could be more money available for farm conservation programs in the future. Sens. Barbara A. Mikulski and Benjamin L. Cardin have introduced legislation that would add $200 million a year in conservation funding to farmers in the bay region.

GOP threatens to slow appropriations process

http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/gop-threatens-to-slow-appropriations-process-2007-06-10.html

Republicans this week are prepared to use parliamentary procedures in a coordinated attack to try and thwart changes in the way the House adds earmarks to appropriations bills, according to GOP sources.

It is the Republicans response to what they say is an egregious abuse of the earmarking process and an unacceptable rule change. They have objected to an announcement by Democrats that earmarks will be added in House and Senate conference instead of allowing each request to be vetted in committee or on the House floor.

Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) responded that the process had to be changed slightly in order to get the appropriations bills through Congress in a timely fashion. Hoyer also said he would be open to hearing the minoritys concerns.

White House Press Secretary Tony Snow Discusses U.S. Military Progress In Iraq. SNOW: "The President has made it clear that he envisions at some point we will get to one of those sort of Baker-Hamilton Commission report levels where U.S. forces withdraw from the front lines, you've got Iraqis handling all the frontline business, and you do have American forces in support, able to provide on a rapid basis any kind of support that's necessary to try to augment the security operations of the Iraqis. But that it's very important to stress is going to be based on conditions on the ground and on the recommendations of General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker. The fact is that there has been some progress, but, o n the other hand, you don't want to get in the position of trying to promote rosy scenarios. This is tough business." (CBS' "Face The Nation," 6/10/07)

Gas Prices Mark Modest Decline. "The national average price for gasoline dropped 7 cents in the last three weeks, according to a nationwide survey released Sunday that marked the first decline since January. The U.S. average for self-serve, regular-grade gasoline was $3.11 per gallon as of Wednesday, down from $3.18 in the last national survey May 18, oil industry analyst Trilby Lundberg said. The modest relief came thanks to a boost in imports of gasoline from foreign producers lured by record-hi gh prices, she said." ("Gas Prices Post 1st Decline Since Jan.," The Associated Press, 6/11/07)

20070611 Tennessee Woman Refused Time Off Work to Donate Kidney

Tennessee Woman Refused Time Off Work to Donate Kidney

Monday, June 11, 2007

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — A worker at Tennessee Apparel wants to donate one of her kidneys to a relative, but the factory refuses to give her time off, even without pay.

Pam Melson, 31, has had to postpone the scheduled transplant this month for 36-year-old Donnie Hammack, who is married to Melson's distant cousin.

"They said letting me off to get this surgery would be like someone getting let off for getting breast implants," said Melson, who has worked at the factory for four years. "I think what I'm trying to do is a little more important than getting breast implants."

Dave Roberts, Tennessee Apparel's vice president of manufacturing, said the company isn't trying to discourage Melson from helping a relative.

But the Tullahoma-based company won't hold her job for her, he said.

More.

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20070611 Quote of the day - Easy win

Quote of the day - Easy win

Monday, June 11^th, 2007

“The conditions of conquest are always easy. We have but to toil awhile, endure awhile, believe always, and never turn back.”

William Gilmore Simms (1806-1870) Historian and writer

Thanks TC

20070611 The Haircut

The Haircut

The fundamental difference between left and right!

Monday, June 11^th, 2007

Hat Tip: Inchon

One day a florist goes to a barber for a haircut. After the cut he asked about his bill and the barber replies, "I cannot accept money from you. I'm doing community service this week." The florist is pleased and leaves the shop.

Next morning when the barber goes to open his shop, there is a thank you card and a dozen roses waiting for him at his door.

Later, a cop comes in for a haircut, and when he goes to pay his bill the barber again replies, "I cannot accept money from you. I'm doing community service this week." The cop is happy and leaves the shop.

Next morning when the barber goes to open up there is a thank you card and a dozen donuts waiting for him at his door.

Later a Republican comes in for a haircut, and when he goes to pay his bill the barber again replies, "I cannot accept money from you. I'm doing community service this week." The Republican is very happy and leaves the shop.

Next morning when the barber goes to open, there is a thank you card and a dozen different books, such as "How to Improve Your Business" and "Becoming More Successful."

Then a Democrat comes in for a haircut, and when he goes to pay his bill the barber again replies, "I cannot accept money from you. I'm doing community service this week." The Democrat is very happy and leaves the shop.

The next morning when the barber goes to open up, there are a dozen democrats lined up waiting for a free haircut.

And that, my friends, illustrates the fundamental difference between left and right!

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20070606 “Haughty and nice” by Kelly McCormack “The Hill”

Haughty and nice

By Kelly McCormack The Hill

Posted January 11^th, 2007

I have found myself reading and re-reading this piece from The Hill – from last week. I just found it to be an interesting glimpse into the day-to-day interpersonal relationships of Capitol Hill.

As any of us who have served in elected office are aware – staff can make or break ya. And I have been on both ends of that paradigm.

The rule is that you accumulate enemies by just “being,” so don’t make any.

It also gave a glimpse at some aspects of intergenerational studies…

Always – ALWAYS be good to staff…

Haughty and nice

By Kelly McCormack

June 06, 2007

Though most interns are young, work for free and have grand ambitions to learn the ins and outs of Congress, they tend to be the most bothersome to service-sector employees on and around Capitol Hill.

They don’t tip well, ask annoying questions and tend to be the rudest people in the nation’s capital, many employees say.

[…]

The employee, who has worked on the Hill for more than 20 years, said she has “plenty” of favorite lawmakers. “They treat us just like their staff,” she remarked.

The cashier said interns were the worst-behaved in the cafeteria. “They don’t really know” how to act, she said.

[…]

“Members are not rude at all. I’ve never met a rude member,” the employee, who has been working on the Hill for 17 years, said. Specifically, she said, Rep. Loretta Sanchez (D-Calif.) is very friendly: “That’s my girl.”

Interns are typically the rudest, not regular staff, the employee concurred.

She said her pet peeve is when interns point at food items and rudely inquire about them, though she noted that she has an old-fashioned standard for politeness that some young people do not abide by.

[…]

He said he regularly deals with staff members, many of whom are very friendly. Clyburn and Reps. Edolphus Towns (D-N.Y.), Wayne Gilchrest (R-Md.) and Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) are exceptionally nice, he said.

Read the entire article here: Haughty and nice

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20070606 through 20070101 Westminster Eagle Column Archives

Westminster Eagle Column Archives from January 1^st, 2007 through June 11^th, 2007

Posted June 11^th, 2007

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Wednesday, June 6^th, 2007

Dwight Dingle, 'Sgt. Pepper' and a bathtub band

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

It was 40 years ago last Saturday, June 2, 1967, when the Beatles released their eighth album, "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band."

Although musical taste can be fiercely debated, many music critics and publications consider this album to be one of the most influential of all time. Rolling Sto...

[Read full story]

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Wednesday, May 30^th, 2007 A 'thank you' for those who serve in public service

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Recently, most of our local municipalities in Carroll County held elections for leadership positions.

We owe everyone who left the safety and security of their comfortable lives to stick their heads above the crowd and run for office, a debt of gratitude.

Every one of them is a winner -- regardl...

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Wednesday, May 23^rd, 2007 The silence and service of Joseph W. Blickenstaff

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Ever since May 28, 1990, the faces of 18 brave Carroll County sons have silently stood guard over our community from the vantage point of an 8-foot high, 4-foot wide and 1-foot thick solid black granite memorial.

Their faces are etched in time in what may be Carroll County's smallest -- but most s...

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Wednesday, May 16^th, 2007 Hallowed ground of Union Meeting House

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

On Monday, May 28, Carroll County will gather for the 140th time to commemorate Memorial Day. Folks will congregate at the large urn, located on the knoll immediately in view as one enters the historic Westminster Cemetery from Church Street.

Carroll Post 31 of the American Legion is once again or...

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Wednesday, May 9^th, 2007 The legacy of Westminster's 'Singing Barber'

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, May 2^nd, 2007 Recalling Westminster's Disney World: Bobby's Hobby Lobby

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, April 25^th, 2007

Who was Kate Wagner, and why did she rule the road?

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

How many folks pass by Kate Wagner Road in Westminster and wonder to themselves, “Just who was Kate Wagner?”

I did not know myself until recently, when I happened to have a conversation with one of my Westminster High School class of 1971 classmates, Steve Sinnott.

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Wednesday, April 18^th, 2007

20070418 The passion thrill and magic of April

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

The American essayist, poet, and leader of the Transcendentalist movement in the early nineteenth century, Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “The April winds are magical, and thrill our tuneful frames. The garden-walks are passional to bachelors and dames.”

Hopefully we won’t have an April this year as we had 110 years ago. The Democratic Advocate reported on April 24, 1897: “A blast from the North bore down on this section Monday night, sending down the mercury to 26 at 7 o'clock on Tuesday morning… This has been the coldest April for twenty years.”

To look back in Carroll County history, any given month of the year provides an historian with a cornucopia of thrilling stories to explore, but April has always been especially fascinating.

[…]

On another positive note, the Carroll Record reported on April 5, 1973, “Friday morning started grey and rainy, much to the dismay of local residents of the Union Bridge area. (It) was the day that Sergeant Peter Edward Drabic (finally returned) to his hometown after four and one half years of captivity in Vietnam.”

Hopefully Mother Nature has remembered to schedule spring this year. We’re overdue for “passional magic to thrill our tuneful frames.”

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Wednesday, April 11 2007 This 'Candy drive' benefits the East Middle School Bulldogs ... and the three Rs

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Thursday, April 05 2007 In the storied history of Carroll Hospital Center, Steve Bohn poised to take a 'SPIRIT'-ed place

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, March 28 2007 If you think school overcrowding is bad now, consider Westminster High School, circa 1920

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Friday, March 23 2007 History of education, minus beheadings, in our state By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, March 14 2007 The high cost of twin tragedies at Bowling Brook By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, March 07 2007 History of slavery leaves many rivers yet to cross By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, February 28 2007 Recalling when B's Coffee Shoppe was all abuzz By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, February 21 2007 Frozen in time: The Great Sleet Storm of 1902 By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Thursday, February 15 2007 As we all know, winter is a four-letter word

By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, February 07 2007 Westminster is great, even if it does get your goat By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, January 31 2007 Westminster was built on the blessing of water By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, January 24 2007 Phil Wampler and our own 'Greatest Generation' By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Friday, January 19 2007 Water issues in Carroll have always been ... fluid

Wednesday, January 10 2007 Monk Campbell: a man of law and order for Carroll By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Wednesday, January 03 2007 You can bank on it: More change coming in 2007 By Kevin E. Dayhoff

20070611 Follow-up on "20070610 The Last Train to Clarksville”

Follow-up on "20070610 The Last Train to Clarksville”

June 11^th, 2007 2:30 AM

UPDATE: I wanted to call to your attention the comment that Mr. Burns left… on "20070610 The Last Train to Clarksville" (I wish I could figure out a way to highlight comments better…)

Before I get to Mr. Burns’ comment, I want to say again, how much I appreciated his post that brought back so many memories of a time and place from a long time ago. Thanks.

For those who are not aware of Mr. Burn’s web site – Please check it out. It has become part of my necessary reading everyday. Find it here: Maryland Politics Today.

As far as Dwight Dingle and WTTR – these folks are simply super. Dwight and I had a great deal of fun with my Westminster Eagle column on aspects of 1967 last Wednesday, June 6th, 2007: Dwight Dingle, 'Sgt. Pepper' and a bathtub band . (I may need to republish it on “Soundtrack” as I have received questions from many folks as to where they may find it.

Meanwhile – some insight into the column can be found here: “20070606 Dwight Dingle and The Mamas and The Papas.”

Of course, it was the topic of on-air discussion the day it came out, June 6^th, 2007 and then the next evening, I talked about the column and other erratum on-air with Bruce Main…

Anyway:

P. Kenneth Burns has left a new comment on your post "20070610 The Last Train to Clarksville":

Believe me when I tell you this, it was more of a play on words than anything.

Little known fact, around the time when I was in the 2nd grade back in 198x, Nickelodeon and Nick and Nite picked up The Monkees television show. Then some years later, I come to find out that there is a Clarksville in Howard County.

As far as the Betamax reference, that was more irony than anything. If you are a regular YouTube user, feel free to look up user "videoholic2007," who was boasting about his Betamax collection.

BTW, Dwight Dingle and the folks at WTTR are a nice group. check out the pictures on my main site, www.kennyburns.com from my visit up there last year.

Thanks for the feedback. And oh, I saw The Monkees TV show when it was prime time TV… And Mr. Burns, the next time you are in town, please let me know. Lunch is on me.

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